Is Clutter Keeping You Back Financially?

If Spring time is the only time Americans begin to mention cleaning, I have NO idea what the heck is going on during the rest of the year. If you’re like many Americans who contribute to the $22 billion per year storage space industry, it’s likely that you are up to your eyeballs with stuff you don’t need otherwise known as clutter.

Most over consuming Americans reportedly have almost $900 worth of unused and unwanted items sitting around their home. What could you do with $900 right now? What is the mound of clutter in your life holding you back from? Well, besides an audition for the show Hoarders, you may be missing out on the establishment of a savings fund, investment opportunities, books for your college kid next semester, a summer vacation . . . . Need we go on?

Here are 5 ways to finally kick clutter to the curb…and, make some cash!

Sell Old Gold — I know you might think that you’re saving that gold nugget ring from ’78 or perhaps that coveted rope chain from the 80s because they’re back in style, but the reality is if you’re in debt or don’t have any savings, it may be best to see if your prized collection of tangled necklaces and broken clasps can earn you some cash. There are tons of places that allow you to just mail the items in and wait for a check, but I suggest stopping in to a local “Cash for Goldâ€ store front and getting an estimate in person and up front. Remember to shop around a bit. You don’t have to take the first offer.

Cash in on Gift Cards — Are you still hanging on to those unwanted gift cards you got for Christmas? It’s estimated that in the $90 billion gift card industry, an average of 10% of gift cards goes unused each year. Check out sites like www.plasticjungle.com or www.cardwoo.com to turn your unwanted gift cards into cash. Depending on the demand for the card, you can earn up to 90% of the value.